Noosaville
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he Noosa River forms the natural artery through the heartland of the region and provides a haven for safe swimming and waterbased activities. Shady banks provide perfect picnic spots or departure points for leisurely cruises through myriad tributaries, wetlands and lakes that lead to the mystical black waters of the Everglades. Wildlife abounds especially in this protected habitat. Across the river on the North Shore, a fourwheel drive will take you along a pristine beach past the coloured sands of Teewah, the time-worn shipwreck of the Cherry
framed photographs and sculptures, The slow but canvases, fresh flowers, foot wear, eye wear and toys. It’s certain hand of heaven times three at day spas for beauty treatments, massages, hairdressing and detox nature can be programs the pathways from the Marina, across found at work on theAlong Doonella Bridge and the Noosa Waters’ canal bridge, or just one ferry stop away, is the often Noosaville and part of the Noosa River, which breathtaking in the main runs parallel to Gympie Terrace. From sun-up along the river or the “golden beauty of the mile” as it’s known to the locals, tai-chi and yoga enthusiasts welcome the day, joggers, impressive walkers and pooches on leads share the Noosa River. pathways, and cyclists sweat it out on a dedicated track which extends from the river,
Venture and eventually to W o r l d Heritagelisted Fraser Island via a short ferry ride. Closer to Noosa the Noosa Marina is a destination you shouldn’t miss. As the sun rises, it not unusual to see kids sitting on the end of the wharf wishing for more than a tiddler on the line, watching charter boats head to the outer reef for a serious day’s fishing and hoping one day they’ll be old enough to be on board. Adjacent to the 40-berth Marina, skateboarders ramp it up before school in Spray Park, the Noosa Ferry prepares to leave for all-day and evening services to Noosa Heads with drop-offs and pick-ups along the way, while aromas of coffee, bacon and toast pervade the salty air. The Noosa Marina is almost ready for another busy day. Set against the backdrop of the tranquil blue-green waters of the Noosa River and with picturesque views whichever way you look, the Marina’s naturally nautical look and village atmosphere are complemented by 20 specialty retailers, five boat cruising options from charter boat hire and self-drive house boats to leisure specialists plus eight restaurants and cafes. Boutiques are filled with elegant fashion and casual resort wear. Specialty stores overflow with must-have homewares, eclectic gifts, chocolates and sweet things,
loops around the canals of Noosa Waters or via the mangroves and creeks to Noosa Junction. Along the foreshore information centres book tours to Fraser Island, jazz cruises and the romantic Gondola, ducks waddle along the water’s edge, flapping pelicans thrust their beaks under water looking for a feed or join seagulls onshore hoping for leftovers. Hiring a kayak or jet ski, charter a barbecue pontoon, putt-putt, fishing tinnie or stand-up paddle board. Along Gympie Terrace and around each corner are bike hires, side-by-side boutiques, book shops, world class restaurants, cafes, takeaway food, gelaterias, day spas, hairdressers, homewares shops, liquor supplies and art galleries. At each end of the esplanade are smart restaurants and the Tewantin side has the Noosa Yacht and Rowing Club, not only a social hub but a hit with kids wishing to learn how to sail. Other precincts nearby such as Gibson Road and Gateway Drive offer wide-ranging options from homewares, sporting goods, pamper places, a supermarket and a large national brand selling computer equipment and furniture to warehouse-style shops selling high-end fashion, recycled furniture, classy jewellery and a wellknown art gallery. Not-too-far-away the Sunday Farmers Market flourishes and pockets all around Noosaville have a plethora of places to stay, eat and shop. Noosaville truly has everything you want and more, just a five-minute drive away from Hastings Street.
Fashion, food, designer homewares all on the beautiful Noosa River
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